But it is understood the 10 council leaders are deeply divided over which of the two Labour veterans would make the better interim figurehead, opening up the biggest rift within the authority since the congestion charge referendum of 2008.

He is also a close ally of Manchester council leader Sir Richard Leese.

Lord Peter told the M.E.N. he would resign his leadership of Wigan if appointed in June.

He admitted the ‘super-council’ - which oversees a range of high-level issues for the region over economic development, planning and transport - needs a higher profile with the public ahead of it being handed major new powers in two years’ time.

Tony Lloyd has revealed he will stand for interim mayor

“We need do a better relationship with the public of Greater Manchester,” he said.

“We can’t just continue meeting in small rooms across the town halls of Greater Manchester. We need to get people to understand what’s going on in their name and why it’s helpful.”

He ruled out standing for the elected position in 2017, but said he had been ‘asked to stand’ for the interim role adding: “It’s an extension of the role I do. It’s a very delicate situation - we need to keep the 10 authorities heading in the same direction in the same speed and we need that more than ever.”